EDSA Rebuild Sparks WFH Debate in the Philippines

The ongoing rehabilitation of EDSA in the Philippines is causing significant traffic congestion, prompting calls from some employees to reinstate work-from-home (WFH) arrangements. Many commuters interviewed by GMA News described their daily struggles. Jennifer, a commuter traveling from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan to Alabang, said, "It takes me hours to get to work. With the EDSA rebuild and the odd-even scheme, it's even worse." Angelitio, another commuter, echoed these sentiments, adding that the rain adds to the difficulty. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is considering implementing WFH setups where possible, but the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) expresses concerns about industry-wide implementation. Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr., president of ECOP, stated that "many companies can't afford WFH." The situation highlights the need for solutions that balance the needs of both employees and employers.